It was only after watching TBO's video that I realized it was the 40th anniversary of Nico Kassanda's passing. He passed away on 22 September 1985. Nico Kassanda, also known as Dr. Nico, was a legendary Congolese guitarist, singer, and songwriter. He was a key figure in the development of modern Congolese music and influenced generations of musicians. He used to play for Grand Kalle's African Jazz and founded African Fiesta with Tabu Ley Rocherau and Roger Izeidi. Nico Kassanda is known for his  hitssongs Table Ronde, Cimetiere, Bouge ya Motema,






If Shakakongo was still alive, he would have organised an event to celebrate his 40th anniversary.

Ah, Dr. Nico Kasanda! The GOAT guitarist. The father of single note playing


Dr. Nico transformed Congolese Rumba with the creation of the mi-solo arrangement in African Fiesta Sukisa. His brother Dechaud is master of the mi-compose rhythm guitar style. The same mi-compose style that would be adopted by Lele Nsundi of Orchestre Kiam, Lokassa Ya M'Bongo, Bopol Mansiamina, etc.



Nico introduced Hawaiian steel guitar to Congolese music, using it to good effect on "N'daya Paradis.



Nico was the first to create instrumental Merengues







Nico was also versatile in blending in various genres such as Highlife and Rock and Roll